SERVICES

As a  community library, the Red Bank Public Library seeks to provide friendly, personalized service to library users of all ages.  

Accessibility:  The goal of the library is to serve every member of the community. The library has an elevator to provide access to the lower level (Children's Room, Community Meeting Room) and the second floor reading rooms (Arts & Recreation and Sports).  Please see a staff member at the circulation desk for assistance.  There is an accessible restroom on the second floor.

Computers: The library offers twelve public computers.  These computers provide high speed access to the Internet and are equipped with Microsoft office applications. Computer use is free to all library members.  In addition, there are two computers that are used exclusively for word processing.

Persons under the age of 18 are required to have a parent or legal guardian sign the registration form.  

Persons who are not library members may use the computers, however there is a charge of $1.00 per hour and I.D. is required.

Free Wireless Internet Access:  Bring your own laptop and use our free WiFi.

Copy Machines:  $.15 per copy.

Exhibits: The library has monthly displays of the work of local artists, historians and collectors.  Artists interested in exhibiting their work should contact Adult Reference Librarian, Jane Eigenrauch.

Reference:  A  trained librarian  is  on duty to assist you with your research.  We provide personalized research assistance, with access to regional and statewide reference sources.  

You can e-mail our reference department at rbref@lmxac.org.  

• After Hours Reference:
  • Q&A NJ: Live real time online reference help from real live reference librarians.  Now available 24/7.
• Genealogy and Local History Research:  The library can look up  information for persons from outside the local area.  If you wish to request a search, please follow the guidelines below.
  • All requests must be submitted in writing.  Letter, fax or  e-mail  are all acceptable.
  • Be as specific and accurate as possible with names, dates, etc.  The Red Bank Register is not indexed.  The more accurate the information you give us, the better we will be able to expedite your request.  Slogging through weeks worth of old newspapers microfilm takes time.  If you are looking for obituaries, death notices or marriage notices in the Red Bank Register, several genealogists have produced indexes of this resources.  Click here for Red Bank Register Indexes.
  • Be patient.  The Red Bank Public Library is a small library with a small staff.   While we try to answer requests within two weeks, we sometimes experience a high volume of requests.
  • Local History research is a free service.  The library does accept donations and of course stamped self-addressed envelopes are always appreciated.
  • Some requests may be too large or complicated for our staff to handle.

Microfilm Reader Printers:  The library has two microfilm reader/printers and a microfiche reader printer.  

Meeting Rooms:  The library meeting room is available for use by not for profit organizations and community groups.  Click here for a copy of our meeting room policy.  Please contact the reference desk for details.

Programs:  Throughout the year, the library offers educational and informational programming for all ages.  Click on Calendar of Events to see what's happening.  Many of our programs are conducted by volunteers.  If you have a special talent or interest that you would like to share please contact the reference department for information.

Services for Teachers and Schools:  

• Assignment Alert:  Let us know when you are planning a research assignment and we will do our best to get the information ready for your students.  For grades K-7 call the children's department.  For grades 8-12 call the adult department.
• Class Visits:  We welcome visits from groups of all ages.  Tours of the library and/or bibliographic instruction can be arranged by appointment as can library cards for students who do not have them.
• Extended Loan For Teachers: Teachers may borrow materials for class use for a six week period.
• Summer Reading Lists:  Send us a copy of your summer reading lists and we will do our best to get the books your students need--Remember, the earlier we get the list, the more books will be available for your students. 

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance:   February -April.  Volunteers provide help with simple federal and state income tax returns.

Other Services:  Many people ask us about Notary and fax services.  We do not provide these services at these time.